What happens when processes are not documented?

Teams improvise, errors repeat, and organisations struggle to scale efficiently.

faq1-process-mapping — Amanda Sokell

A visual representation of the steps and decisions involved in completing a workflow.

Documentation ensures consistency, reduces errors and supports continuous improvement.

A process outlines the journey; a procedure describes the detailed actions within each step.

Workflow tools assist in executing documented procedures but cannot compensate for poorly designed processes.

Q1: What is a process map?

A process map is a visual representation of the steps, decisions and handoffs involved in completing an activity.

Q2: Why is documentation important?

Documentation ensures consistency, reduces errors and helps organisations improve workflows systematically.

Q3: What is the difference between a process and a procedure?

A process outlines the sequence of major steps; a procedure explains how each step is performed in detail.

Q4: How do workflow tools support process mapping?

Tools help execute documented procedures but cannot compensate for a poorly designed process.

Q5: What problems arise when processes are not documented?

Teams rely on memory, improvise differently, repeat mistakes and become unable to scale efficiently.

Q6: Why include swimlanes?

Swimlanes show who performs each step, highlighting unnecessary handoffs or gaps.

Q7: What should be mapped first?

Always map the high-level journey before breaking it down into detailed instructions.